Drivers abusing the blue badge parking scheme have been targeted as part of a crackdown by council enforcement teams.

Fines were issued to four motorists following two days of action in Dartford and across the Tonbridge and Malling borough.

It comes as part of training for parking wardens to use a new mobile phone app allowing officers to check whether Disabled Persons' Badges are being used properly.

The training, led by Kent County Council's counter fraud team, means civil enforcement officers in the two areas will be able to carry out quick on-the-spot checks to see if badges are valid and being used by the badge holder.

Misusing badges can cause distress for genuine holders unable to use their badges in bays or in parking areas dedicated to people with disabilities and limited mobility.

During the two days, 72 people had their badges checked with four people found to be abusing the scheme.

Enforcement action will now be taken against them, a KCC spokesman said.

Legitimate holders spoke to officers about their support for the enforcement taking place and the need for more regular checks to be carried out in both boroughs.

Changes to the eligibility rules has seen more badges issued in Kent with the requirement for genuine users to have spaces available greater than ever.

James Flannery, KCC’s counter fraud manager, said: “This continues our proactive approach of working with district and borough councils in ensuring the blue badge scheme works for those that need it.

“The Civil Enforcement Officers involved told us this was the best training they had ever received, and this system will allow them to target those who are causing an inconvenience to those members of public who are genuinely in need.

“Although most Blue Badge holders respect the rules of their use, KCC and the two borough councils will not tolerate the abuse of the system by the minority who misuse the scheme.”

“The Civil Enforcement Officers involved told us this was the best training they had ever received..."

Misusing the blue badge is a criminal offence and can lead to a £1,000 fine and confiscation of the badge and must be used by the person it is registered to.

Those using the badge as a passenger must make sure the driver is aware of the rules around using it, which include not handing one out to friends or family allowing them to park for free even if they are visiting the badge holder.

Non-disabled people should not use the badge and take advantage of the benefits while a badge-holder waits in the car.

Anyone who suspects a blue badge is being used incorrectly can report it to KCC via www.kent.gov.uk and search “blue badge”.

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